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Thursday, July 23, 2015

...by the numbers



Five days after my last blog post, my beloved husband died.  He was my partner in every sense of the word – life, love, family, work, adventure, happiness, and sorrow.  The common refrain during the days and weeks afterward, as the news was shared and shared again:  “What?!” 
 
Today was the 5 month anniversary of his totally unexpected departure from a very full life.  Most days, I still feel that all of this is just some horrible mistake – it seems much more like a mere 5 weeks than it could possibly be 5 months *What?!*

This past Sunday was the 17th Sunday since his death as well as what would have been our 18th wedding anniversary.  It would also have marked over 20 years of togetherness…  *What?!*


Tomorrow, Thursday July 23rd, would have been his 64th birthday.

In just over 2 weeks, we will gather together – family, friends, business associates – to celebrate his life.

The “firsts” keep barreling at me – full body blows – I seem unable to be “prepared” for them, even when I see them coming (?)  This may well be the most jarring part of my new reality…  The 1st hummingbird at our red honeysuckle vine was on April 11 – I wrote it down – as if I would need to be able to tell him…

There have been countless cards and electronic messages – each and every one arriving at the perfect time – such beautiful words of love and support, comfort and care.  I am mightily humbled and thoroughly amazed and ever-so-very-appreciative for every syllable.  I thank you all.

One set of hands has held me steady – re-centered me when I wandered off course – reached out, even when I thought I needed to be alone -- provided simple comforts in the worst of this journey.  My mother has been a rock.  I don’t know how I would have made it this far without her.  I love you, Momma!

Many whom I love and respect tell me that I am doing great.  I cling daily to this notion of what I am as ‘great’ – ever aware of the abysmal chaos lurking below.  If what I am doing is ‘great,’ may God help those having worser days!

I am forever changed.   

Onward & Upward.
 - penny

3 comments:

  1. Beautiful words for a beautiful person, by a beautiful person. Keep writing your thoughts Penny. I'm very sure it will help you and others. Love you! - Sharon

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  2. I echo Sharon's sentiments. You are doing as well as you can, when you can, and that's all you can do, and all you should expect of yourself. We who love you stand ready to help with whatever you need (even if it's just some ripe tomatoes! :-)) <3, Michelle

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  3. Hang in there. It will get better. Thoughts of love, comfort and strength are being sent your way daily.

    - Ilona

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